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Category:    Home > Reviews > Animation > Action > Blaxploitation > Black Dynamite - Season One (2012/Warner/Adult Swim Blu-ray)

Black Dynamite - Season One (2012/Warner/Adult Swim Blu-ray)

Picture: A- Sound: B+ Extras: C Episodes: B



Based on a 2009 film of the same name, Black Dynamite is a newer Adult Swim series that premiered in July of 2012. The television series plays on the 'Blaxploitation' premise of the 1970s, just as the 2009 film had.

The series involves Black Dynamite (Michael Jai White) and his crew getting into a host over explosive, over the top misadventures. The crew consists of Bullhorn (Byron Minns), Kym Whitley (Honeybee), and Cream Corn (Tommy Davidson); each bringing their own special brand of charm and abilities to the table. The main villain in the series is oddly and hilariously [just as in the film] Richard Nixon. Whereas the series does not follow the direct continuity of the film, there are back references to a certain degree. Though this first season is a mere ten (10) episodes long, it packs a powerful punch. The self-aware 'Blaxploitation' genre has the crew set out on variety of missions that involve many different black celebrities. This goes on to include the likes of Richard Pryor, Mr. T, Michael Jackson, OJ Simpson, and even [the not so black] Elvis Presley.

The insanity that was Black Dynamite the feature film is taken to the next level here in animated form; as we are treated to the same outlandish antics, but with better production value. That is the say (yes) the creators continue to poke fun at low production value with prop mishaps and poor (over the top) acting; but NOW the beautifully constructed series has sweeping footage and intense angles that take the series to the next level.

The amped up violence, perfectly executed jive talk, and bizarre missions collectively create an atmosphere of controlled chaos as Black Dynamite and his crew prove that anything is possible (as least on Adult Swim).

The Blu-ray release here is beautiful. The picture is a 1080p, 2.40 X 1 High Definition Wide Screen that boasts of a stylish and powerful color palate. The series takes a page from other series like The Boondocks utilizing warm Autumn hues, but concurrently infusing blasts of color. The crisp, clean image translates a 1970s feel with the modern 'conveniences' of today's high definition features. The sound is a lossless 5.1 Dolby TrueHD mix that utilizes all speakers for this fast moving, high action series; projecting the dialogue, music, and adventure nicely from all speakers. Panning effects are solid throughout and prioritization is equally well done.

Black Dynamite is a truly fun series that will have viewers laughing from beginning to end; while at the same time having the viewer completely engrossed in the over the top action and adventure.



- Michael P. Dougherty II


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